In a notable legal dispute stemming from the filming of the horror movie *MaXXXine*, actress Mia Goth has requested to be deposed remotely amid claims made by a background actor, James Hunter. Hunter has alleged that Goth “intentionally kicked” him during filming, a contention that has sparked significant legal and safety concerns.
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The controversy began in 2024 when Hunter lodged a complaint against Goth, director Ti West, and the production company A24, alleging he suffered injury on set due to Goth’s actions. According to court documents filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, Hunter claims that during a take in which he portrayed a deceased character, Goth stepped in close proximity to him, prompting a warning from a second assistant director. However, in a subsequent take, it is alleged that Goth struck Hunter in the head with her foot, leading to physical injuries.
Following the alleged incident, Hunter reported experiencing headaches and neck stiffness. He asserted to the assistant director that he had not received medical attention on set despite feeling unwell. His symptoms reportedly escalated, causing him to feel lightheaded while driving home, which led to him pulling over for safety reasons.
As the legal proceedings unfolded, Hunter sought a deposition from Goth to occur in person, stating his intent for it to take place in April 2027. However, Goth’s legal team has argued against an in-person meeting, with the actress expressing serious concerns about her personal safety and privacy. In a declaration submitted to the court, Goth detailed her fears, citing Hunter’s past behavior, which she claimed included harassment and efforts to publicise allegations against her through social media.
Goth’s declaration indicated that she believed Hunter’s interest in her extended beyond the legal matter at hand, raising alarm over his attempts to locate her residence and engage with associates connected to the case. “Based on my understanding of Plaintiff’s conduct, I have a genuine and reasonable concern for my safety and privacy if my deposition is conducted in person,” Goth stated.
Despite Goth’s request to conduct her deposition via video link, Hunter contends that both parties had previously been denied the option to engage in remote depositions during an informal discovery conference. He asserted that attempts to schedule Goth’s deposition have been met with resistance from her legal team, citing a previous refusal to participate in a deposition set for early September.
The context surrounding this lawsuit has led to a complex interplay of legal maneuvers as both parties prepare for what may evolve into a lengthy battle in court. Beyond the pivotal actions taken by Goth and Hunter, the broader implications for set safety and the treatment of background actors in the film industry have come under scrutiny.
In his initial complaint, Hunter sought $250,000, citing expenses relating to medical treatment and rehabilitation, as well as punitive damages. He claimed that Goth’s behaviour extended beyond the reported incident, alleging a pattern of mockery and belittlement during his time on set, which he described as an invasion of privacy.
The anticipated deposition of Goth continues to hover over the proceedings as this high-profile case unfolds, captivating attention from both the film community and the public. While Goth’s attention to her safety remains a critical point, it has also sparked debate regarding the responsibilities of productions to ensure a safe working environment for all participants, including extras.
Representatives for Goth, Ti West, and A24 have yet to respond to requests for comments on the ongoing situation, leaving many questions unanswered about the resolution of this unusual legal confrontation. As the situation develops, industry observers and fans alike will be watching closely to see how the court navigates the delicate balance between legal obligations and personal safety within the realm of filmmaking.